Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Engages in Reconciliation Efforts During Visit to Somalia

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Somalia to engage in reconciliation talks with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The discussions will focus on security, politics, and counterterrorism, amid concerns over recent mortar attacks near the airport. While Ethiopia seeks to strengthen ties with Somalia following a peace deal, tensions remain due to its agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland.

On Thursday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Somalia for significant discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, centered around reinforcing the delicate reconciliation between their nations. These talks, as indicated by the Somali government, will touch upon topics such as security, politics, diplomacy, economics, and regional counterterrorism initiatives.

Security personnel confirmed that Prime Minister Abiy’s delegation arrived safely at the airport. However, shortly after their departure towards the presidential palace, reports emerged of mortar attacks near the airport area. Local resident Abdiraham Hassan noted, “Two rounds of mortar shells landed in Bulohubey neighbourhood. An elderly woman was wounded after the shell exploded close to her house,” indicating the level of instability in the region.

Despite these developments, a member of Ethiopia’s delegation expressed to AFP their unawareness of any such attacks occurring during their visit. The backdrop of Abiy’s visit is marked by heightened tensions stemming from Ethiopia’s prior agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland, which had threatened diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Somalia.

In January, Ethiopia and Somalia announced the restoration of their diplomatic ties, following a peace agreement facilitated by Turkey. A source from the Somali presidential palace disclosed that Abiy’s visit aims to advance the implementation of this Ankara agreement. Meanwhile, the future remains uncertain regarding Ethiopia’s prior pact with Somaliland, which Mogadishu strongly opposed, leading to the recall of its ambassador from Ethiopia.

The visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Somalia represents a vital step in fostering reconciliation between the two nations amidst ongoing security challenges. While the leaders will discuss various critical issues, the backdrop of past tensions and recent attacks underscores the fragile state of their relationship. Future developments surrounding Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland and their diplomatic ties will be pivotal in shaping regional stability.

Original Source: newscentral.africa